Poland’s dominance continues at Ciechanów 2023

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The 2023 Virtus World and European Cross Country Championship concludes after two exciting days. On the second day of the event, familiar faces found success once more in both the men’s and women’s categories.

In the II1 women’s event, the host nation’s short course medalists switched positions in the challenging 6km long course. Barbara BIEGANOWSKA-ZAJĄC, fondly known as the “Golden Basia,” maintained her undefeated streak and secured the gold with a time of 23:52 seconds.

Monika WYROBEK sought vengeance from the previous day and outpaced Anna BODZIONY to claim the silver, finishing an incredibly close race with times of 24:04 seconds and 24:16 seconds, respectively.

(L-R). Monika WYROBEK, Barbara BIEGANOWSKA-ZAJĄC  and Anna BODZIONY. Photo Credit: ANDDI Portugal

As for the II1 Men’s 8km Long Course, the runners didn’t disappoint and delivered an exciting performance. Christiano Pereira from Portugal and Gaël Geffroy from France once again engaged in a fierce battle for the championship title, mirroring their rankings from the previous day.

Winners of II1 and II2 Men’s Long Course. Photo Credit: ANDDI Portugal

Christiano, with a time of 24:13 seconds, clinched his second gold medal of the tournament, while Gaël secured another silver with a time of 24:36 seconds. Meanwhile, Jose Martinez MOROTE from Spain faced stiff competition from Adrian Parras ALVAREZ but managed to secure the final spot on the podium.

“I am feeling very proud to win Gold in both long and short distance. I did some long distance specific trainings for this event and things turned out to be pretty great for me”, Christiano told Virtus.

In the II2 Men’s 4km race, Spanish runners continued their strong performance, but there was a shift in the winners’ positions. Mikel Garcia AGUIRREZABAL surrendered the championship title today to Jose Nicolas Castaño CASTRO by a mere 00:31 microseconds. Jason DAVID from France secured his second bronze medal.

Anna SZEWCZYK and Magdalena DĄBROWSKA on podium. Photo Credit: ANDDI Portugal

In II2 Women’s 4km, Polish runners Anna SZEWCZYK and Magdalena DĄBROWSKA won the gold and silver respectively.

In Team’s, Spain took the trophy while Portugal came second and Poland came third.

The host nation claimed the top spot in the medal tally with a total of 11 medals (4 gold, 4 silver, and 3 bronze). Spain followed with 5 medals (2 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze), and Portugal secured 2 gold medals.

Full results can be accessed from here.

Short Course dominated by Polish women on Day 1 of Ciechanów 2023

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The 2023 Virtus World and European Championship officially opened today in Ciechanów, Poland. Athletes from all the participating teams took part in a march at the Family Park of Entertainment and Education in Gołotczyźna. The opening ceremony was graced by notable attendees, including Jan Andrzej Kaluszkiewicz, Starost of the Ciechanów County, and Dariusz Mosakowski, President of Sprawni-Razem.

Opening ceremony celebration at Ciechanów 2023. Photo Credit: ANDDI Portugal

While addressing the crowd, Dariusz Mosakowski’s emphasized the importance of overcoming personal challenges and limitations. After the opening ceremony, the competition kicked off with the short course races.

Polish women cleaned the podium in short course

Barbara BIEGANOWSKA-ZAJĄC. Photo Credit: OIS

In the Women’s 2Km Cross Country final, the host nation athletes showcased their remarkable prowess in front of the home crowd and secured an impressive clean sweep of the podium. Barbara BIEGANOWSKA-ZAJĄC, the four time Paralympic Champion and multiple time Virtus champion, once again stood out as the gold medalist (7:23sec), putting on a stellar performance that earned her the highest honor. Her fellow countrywomen, Anna BODZIONY (7:32sec)and Monika YROBEK (7:33sec), also delivered outstanding performances, claiming the silver and bronze medals, respectively. This display of Polish dominance underscored their strength and skill in cross country running, leaving a lasting impression on the competition.

Winners of 4km Cross Country. Photo Credit: ANDDI Portugal

In the 4km Cross Country event, the gold medal went to Cristiano Pereira, demonstrating his exceptional abilities on the challenging course. He outpaced his competitors, which included France’s Gaël Geffroy and Poland’s Daniel Pek, to claim the coveted top spot. Pereira’s impressive victory in this event highlighted his endurance and determination, earning him a well-deserved gold medal and recognition as a formidable cross country runner.

The II2 Mixed 2km race unfolded as a thrilling and closely contested battle between two Spanish runners, Mikel Garcia AGUIRREZABAL and Jose Nicolas Castaño CASTRO. Both athletes displayed remarkable speed and determination throughout the race, making it a captivating competition. In the end, Mikel Garcia AGUIRREZABAL emerged as the victor, securing the gold medal with an impressive performance. Jose Nicolas Castaño CASTRO’s remarkable efforts earned him the silver medal, a testament to his skill and competitive spirit. Jason David from France secured the bronze, adding to the intense competition and showcasing the diverse talent of athletes in the race. This exciting race displayed the true essence of sportsmanship and determination at the championship.

The long course races are scheduled for tomorrow, and live results can be accessed here.

Japanese Athletes Shine on Track, Hong Kong & Republic of Korea Dominate Table Tennis on Closing Day of APG2022

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On the closing day of the Asian Para Games, Japanese athletes excelled on the track, while Hong Kong and the Republic of Korea demonstrated their prowess in table tennis.

In an intense battle during the women’s doubles-Class WD22 table tennis event, Hong Kong’s Wong Ting-ting and Ng Mui-wui triumphed over the Japanese team with a 3-2 victory. Despite Hong Kong’s initial lead in the first match (11-5), the Japanese team mounted a comeback, winning the next two matches with scores of 12-10, 12-10. However, the resilience and strong strategy of Mui Wui and Ting Ting secured the final two matches with scores of 13-11 and 11-7. Chinese Taipei’s Li Jing-Shiuan and Li Lydia Yi-ya, along with Hong Kong’s Wong Ka Man and Wong Pui Kei, claimed the bronze medals.

Kim Chang Gi and Kim Gi Tae. Photo Credit: Luc Percival and ITTF

In the Men’s Doubles MD22, the Republic of Korea’s Kim Gi Tae and Kim Chang Gi demonstrated their strength by defeating their Japanese opponents, Takeshi Takemori and Kato Koya, with a decisive 3-0 win.

Kim Gi Tae expressed his satisfaction with the victory, stating,

“Because I put in a lot of effort in training before the match, I achieved great results today. I have no regrets about today’s game.”

Despite missing the gold in singles at APG, Kim Gi Tae is determined to replicate his performance at Andalusia 2022 during Paris 2024 and secure all three gold medals.

In the T20 1500m events, Japanese runners dominated both the men’s and women’s podiums. In the women’s category, Japan’s Yamamoto Moeko clinched the gold with a time of 4:56.60, followed by her compatriot, Ari Misaki (5:24.57).

India’s Pooja, making her debut at the para games, secured her first medal, a bronze (5:38.81), adding to the medal haul of India.

In the men’s race, OKAWACHI Kenta and NAKAGAWA Daisuke, representing Japan, engaged in a fierce competition, with Okawachi narrowly claiming the title by a mere 0:01.23 seconds. Muhamad Nurdin BIN Ibrahim from Malaysia secured the third place.

The remarkable accomplishments of these Asian athletes serve as a testament to their unwavering dedication and relentless hard work. Virtus congratulates and extends heartfelt gratitude to these exceptional individuals for setting new standards and inspiring athletes worldwide.

Seo Yanghee and Kim Gi Tae clinch the Mixed Doubles gold at APG 2022

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The fifth day of the Asian Para Games witnessed the crowning of Mixed Doubles champions and the establishment of new Asia Para Games records.

Table Tennis

In the Mixed Doubles Semifinals, Chinese Taipei and Republic of Korea defeated Japan and Thailand by 3-2, 3-0 and secured their place in the finals.

“I think we did not prepare well for today’s game. As for our advantage, I think it is to seize the opportunity and ride on the momentum. We stick to this principle in the game,” Asano takashi (JPN) told APG after the semifinal match against TPE.

“At that time I thought that we could not lose the victory. On the second half we are kind of under stress, and we made some inappropriate decisions”, he added.

In the Mixed Double’s final showdown, an intense battle unfolded between Seo Yanghee and Kim Gi Tae (KOR) and Chen Po Yen and Li Jing-Shiuan (TPE). Although Chinese Taipei secured the first two matches with scores of 11-9 and 11-4, the Korean powerhouses unleashed their full potential, triumphing with a 3-2 victory.

Turning to the Women’s Doubles, Match 1 saw Hong Kong’s Wong Ka Man and Wong Pui Kei facing defeat against NG Mui Wui and Wong Ting Ting with a 0-3 score. In Match 2, Japan’s Furukawa Kanami and Ito Maki secured a 3-0 win over Chinese Taipei’s Li Jing Shiuan and Li Lydia Yi-Ya in the semifinals, securing their spot in the finals.

In the Men’s Doubles, both Hong Kong teams faced unfortunate outcomes. Fan Ka Ho and Wan Wai Lok fell to Kim Chang Gi and Kim Gi Tae (KOR) with a 3-0 result in Match 1, while Leung Chung Yan and Tsoi Ming Fai lost to Takeshi Takemori and Kato Koya (JPN).

Swimming

Aira Kinoshita (L) and Yui Lam Chan (R) flaunting their medal from 2022 Virtus OA GAmes. ©-Sport-Inclusion-Australia_Photo-Credit-Deion-Menzies

A thrilling and fiercely competitive race unfolded in the Women’s 200m Individual Medley, as Aira Kinoshita (JPN) and Yui-Lam Chan (HKG) engaged in an intense battle from the very first lap. These two exceptional swimmers relentlessly pursued each other until Aira pushed her limits, taking the lead from the third lap onward. Aira, the Japanese swimmer, maintained her momentum and secured the Gold, setting a new APG record with an impressive time of 2:26.14 seconds. Chueng Ho Ying (HKG) claimed the final spot on the podium, clocking in at 2:35.11.

Naohide Yamaguchi at 2022 Virtus OA Games. © Sport Inclusion Australia_Photo Credit Deion Menzies

In the Men’s category, Japanese swimmers continued their podium domination. Yamaguchi Naohide (JPN) secured his second Gold at APG 2022 by setting another record in the 200m Individual Medley. Naohide maintained his undefeated streak from the first lap, gradually widening the gap that his competitors couldn’t bridge. He emerged as the undisputed champion, clocking in at 2:09.91, setting a new APG record. A nail-biting swim-off unfolded between Wai Lok Tang (HKG) and Nakajima Keichi (JPN) for the second spot, with Wai Lok clinching it by a mere 0.23 seconds.

The finals of the T20 Men’s and Women’s 1500m events in Athletics, as well as the Men’s and Women’s Doubles matches, are all set to take place tomorrow, marking the last day of the Asian Para Games.

Detail results and information regarding closing ceremony is available at Hangzhou 2022 website.

APG2022: Shared Gold and APG record for Anku Matsuda and Lee Inkook

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On the fourth day of the Asian Para Games, in addition to the remarkable record-breaking performances, athletes also shared the Gold medals and All-Play Record (APR) recognition.

Swimming

Anku Matsuda (L) and Lee Inkook (R). Photo Credit: Sport Inclusion Australia and International Paralympic Committee

The Men’s 100m Butterfly delivered an electrifying showdown as Anku Matsuda (JPN), Lee Inkook (KOR), and Nakajima Keichi (JPN) engaged in an epic battle. Nakajima took an early lead, but Anku and Lee surged ahead shortly after. The two swimmers engaged in a thrilling neck-and-neck duel, racing to the finish line with the exact same time (57.86). Not only did they both earn a shared Gold medal, but they also shattered the APG records.

Matsuda, ecstatic about his unexpected victory in his APG debut, expressed,

“All I did was empty my mind and give everything I had. To be honest, I did not expect this, as it’s not my best event. It feels amazing to achieve such a great result.”

He also described the APG as ‘a festival for para athletes’ and shared his aspirations for the future:

“My future plan is to win another gold medal in the Paris Paralympics, which represents a higher stage and greater challenges. I will be prepared for that.”

In the Women’s 100m Butterfly, Yui Lam Chan added another gold medal to her collection, along with an APG record (1:04.71), outpacing Japan’s Aira Kinoshita (1:06.88) and Inoue Mami (1:09.60).

Athletics

The streak of record-breaking performances extended into Athletics as well. Japanese jumpers made a strong statement right from the first jump, with Kawaguchi Rio leaping 5.06m and Sakai Sonomi covering 5.04m. Both athletes continued to push their limits in an attempt to outdo their teammate. However, it was Sakai who surpassed Kawaguchi with an incredible leap of 5.37m in her fifth attempt, breaking the APG record in the process.

Table Tennis

The Round of 16 matches concluded today in both Women’s and Men’s doubles, paving the way for the top two teams from each group to advance to the semifinals.

In the Men’s Doubles, the first match will see Kim Chang Gi and Kim Gi Tae (KOR) competing against Fan Ka Ho and Wan Wai Lok (HKG) for a spot in the finals. In the second match, Hong Kong’s Leung Chung Yan and Tsoi Ming Fai will face Japan’s Takeshi Takemori and Kato Koya.

For the Women’s Doubles, one table will feature Chinese Taipei taking on Japan, while the other will showcase both teams from Hong Kong vying for a place in the finals.

In the Mixed Doubles category, the quarterfinal matches are set, with TPE vs. HKG, THA vs. JPN, JPN vs. THA, and HKG vs. KOR in the first half of the bracket.

Live results can be accessed from Hangzhou Asian Para Games website.

With only two days remaining until the conclusion of the APG, it promises to be an exciting finale as athletes give their all and test their limits in the remaining events.

APG2022: Japanese Athletes Shine as Dominators in Swimming and Table Tennis

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On the third day of the Asian Para Games, Hangzhou witnessed the smashing of three more records alongside the coronation of Table Tennis Champions for APG 2022.

Swimming

Mikika Serizawa made history today, notching not one but two record-breaking achievements in the Women’s 100m Breaststroke. The Japanese swimmer showcased her brilliance with a remarkable time of 1:16.85 seconds, securing the championship title.

“At first, I was nervous and afraid. But since I got here and start practicing, I think my swimming skill is improving. It’s a great pleasure to win a gold medal in such an international event”, Mikika told APG after the race.

Yui Lam Chan (HKG) swiftly followed with an impressive time of 1:20.69 seconds to claim the second position. Adding to the glory, Indonesia’s Indriani Syuchi achieved a historic moment by winning Indonesia’s first medal in the S14 swimming event, securing the bronze with a time of 1:24.14 seconds.

The celebration continued as Noahide Yamaguchi extended his medal streak on the third day of events. He clinched a second Gold for Japan in the S14 100m Breaststroke, setting a new APG record with an astonishing time of 1:03.82 seconds, dominating the competition.

“Even though I was affected by the relay, but I am still satisfied with my performance. If I can pay more attention to the weight distribution and the movement of my arm, I think I will be faster”, Yamaguchi told APG.

Talking about his training schedule, Yamaguchi said,

“recently, I often compare my usual stroke with the stroke I used when I set the world record. I really want to win the gold medal in the breaststroke event at the Paralympics ”

The race for the second place was a nail-biting battle between Kim Kyeongbin (KOR) and Japan’s Sato Yuto, with Kim claiming the spot by a mere 0.11 seconds.

Athletics

Twenty one year old BIN Nor Azmi Muhammad Ammar Aiman (MAS) emerged as the shining star in the Men’s 400m, achieving a remarkable feat by shattering both the Asian and APG records with an astonishing time of 47.60 seconds.

Bin Nor Azmi Muhammad Ammar Aiman celebrating his win. Photo Credit: Bernama

“Delighted with the gold medal. Faced many challenges… I am satisfied that all the hard work I put in, including not going back to Pontian, paid off. Can’t wait to go back to meet them all“, Bin told Bernama.

Indonesia’s Nomleni Alfin secured the silver medal with a time of 49.07 seconds, while RAMAZANI Torkamani Milad, representing the Islamic Republic of Iran, claimed the bronze to the delight of his nation

Table Tennis

Natsuki Wada (L) and Chen Po Yen (R) in action. Photo Credit: Sport Inclusion Australia and FFSA

In Women’s category, Natsuki Wada (JPN) and Wong Ting Ting (HKG) battled their way to the Women’s Singles Finals, each emerging victorious against formidable opponents with scores of 3-1.

On the Men’s side, Chen Po Yen (TPE) showcased his unmatched dominance by securing his place in the Finals after overpowering Kim Chang Gi (KOR), while Takeshi Takemori (JPN) triumphed over Kim Gi Tae (KOR).

The stage was set for a thrilling final showdown as Natsuki Wada and Wong Ting Ting faced off. Wong took the initial lead, but Natsuki mounted a remarkable comeback, clinching three consecutive matches and seizing the title with a resounding 1-3 victory.

In an awe-inspiring performance, Chen Po Yen once again asserted his mastery, claiming the Asian Para Games title with a flawless 3-0 win over Takeshi Takemori (JPN)

Historic Medals and New Records Take Center Stage On Day Two of APG 2022

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The second day of the Asian Para Games 2022 witnessed a fascinating turn of events, marked by India and Saudi Arabia clinching their inaugural medals in events tailored for athletes with intellectual impairments. Additionally, the day was punctuated by the shattering of more records.

Swimming

Yui-Lam Chan at OA Games 2022. Photo Credit: HKSAPID

100m Backstroke was underway at the pool today for the S14 class at the HOC Aquatic Sports Arena.

In the thrilling Men’s showdown, Japanese sensation Naohide Yamaguchi, Lee Inkook from South Korea, and Bin Muhammad Redzuan representing Malaysia engaged in an exhilarating neck-and-neck battle. In the end, Naohide clinched the gold with a new APG record (1:00.61), leaving Lee Inkook with the silver (1:01.41) and Bin Muhammad Redzuan securing the bronze (1:02.98).

“I think it is a great pleasure to be a part of such a international event. With such event, people can use sports to break the walls between nations”, Naohide told APG on participating at APG2022.

The Women’s event witnessed a fierce rivalry between Yui Lam Chan (HKG) and Aira Kinoshita (JPN). Yui Lam surged ahead, snatching the gold by a mere 0.91 seconds, while Thailand’s Khajhonmatha Nattharinee (1:13.04) secured the last spot on the podium.

The day concluded with a spectacular display of team spirit in the mixed 4×100 Freestyle Relay. Team Japan, featuring Aira Kinoshita, Naohide Yamaguchi, Inoue Mami, and Keichi Nakajima, demonstrated flawless teamwork, emerging as champions by defeating strong competitors from Hong Kong and the Republic of Korea. Japan also set new records, smashing both Asian and APG records with an impressive 3:53.63 seconds

Athletics

Jeevanji Deepthi flaunting her Gold Medal. Photo Credit: Sivus INDIA

Team India celebrated a historic day on the track, with Jeevanji Deepthi securing the nation’s first APG medal in the T20 category. She stunned the crowd and her competitors by smashing both Asian and APG records with a remarkable time of 56.69 seconds in the T20 Women’s 400m. Kaising Orawan from Thailand gave a stellar performance, achieving her personal best time of 59.00 seconds and claiming the silver medal, while Kanno Niina from Japan settled for the bronze.

In the Men’s Long Jump event, Paralympic Champion Abdul Latif Romly from Malaysia dominated the scoreboard from his very first attempt. However, he solidified his lead in the fourth attempt, covering a remarkable distance of 7.18m and securing the gold. Saudi Arabia celebrated its first APG medal in the T20/F20 event as Dawshi Hassan Nasser clinched the silver with a jump of 6.80m. Bin Abdullah Zulkifly from Malaysia completed the podium by winning the bronze.

Malaysian throwers showcased their prowess in the F20 Men’s Shot-Put, with Bin Zolkefli Mihammad Ziyad emerging as the undisputed champion, recording a winning distance of 16.65m. Bin Mohamad Awi Mohamad Aliff, also from Malaysia, faced a tough challenge from Sanepoot Boonkong from Thailand in the battle for the silver medal. Mohamad Aliff displayed his strength and precision, defeating Sanepoot by a mere 0.08m to secure second place on the podium.

Table Tennis

NG Mui Wui at GG2023.Photo Credit: Luc Percival

The Class11 athletes battled fiercely in the Quarterfinal matches at the GSP Gymnasium.

Women’s Quarterfinals:

In Match 1, Wada Natsuki (JPN) triumphed over Seo YangHee (KOR) with a score of 3-0.

Match 2 witnessed ITO Maki (JPN) facing a formidable opponent in NG Mui Wui (HKG), who secured victory with a score of 3-0.

Furukawa Kanami (JPN) dominated Match 3, defeating Li Jing Shiuan (TPE) with a perfect score of 3-0.

In Match 4, Li Lydia Yi-Ya (TPE) encountered an impressive Wong Ting Ting (HKG), who secured a convincing 3-0 victory.

Men’s Quaterfinals:

Match 1 featured a remarkable performance by Chen Po Yen (TPE), who maintained an undefeated record by defeating Techo Master Narawit (THA) with a score of 3-0.

Match 2 witnessed Kato Koya (JPN) facing a tough challenge from Kim Chang Gi (KOR), who secured victory with a score of 3-0.

Match 3 delivered an intense battle between Japan’s Takeshi Takemori and Malaysia’s Ahmad Jennah Jennahtul Fahmi. Both athletes won two sets of games, leading to a deciding match. Takeshi emerged victorious with a score of 3-2.

Match 4 saw Asano Takashi competing against South Korea’s Kim Gi Tae, with Kim securing a 3-1 victory.

Schedule and live results can be accessed from Hangzhou 2022 website.

APG 2022: Hong Kong Sweeps the podium clean on the first day of Hangzhou 2022

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The Asian Para Games in Hangzhou 2022, east China’s Zhejiang Province, was declared open yesterday after one-year delay.

With over 3,000 athletes showcasing the finest Para sports talents at the multisport event that took place a year ahead of the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the Games were a significant milestone.

Osmanthus flowers in full bloom at opening ceremony of APG Hangzhou 2022. Photo Credit: Asian Paralympic Committee

After a one-year postponement due to the impact of COVID-19, participants from 44 National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) competed in 564 medal events spanning 22 sports. This event, which concluded on October 28, holds a crucial position on the path to Paris 2024 and offers qualifying opportunities in select sports. The Asian Para Games were officially inaugurated by China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

Athletes with intellectual impairments hailing from Asian regions are gearing up to compete fiercely across various events in Athletics, Swimming, and Table Tennis at the games.

Athletics

Reina Hori of Japan took an early lead in the F20 Women’s Shot-Put, impressively topping the scoreboard with her first attempt, launching the shot to a distance of 11.43m. She continued to dominate the event and ultimately set a new Asian Record at 11.93m. Indonesian athlete Suparni Yati secured the second position with a throw of 11.12m, while Noor Imanina Binti Idris from India settled for third place with a distance of 11.08m.

Swimming

(L-R) Hong Kong’s Tsun Lok Cheung, Wai Lok Tang and Hon Yin Wong. Photo Credit: China Hong Kong Paralympic Committee

The first day of the competition witnessed Hong Kong’s outstanding performance, as they dominated the podium in the S14 Men’s 200m Freestyle event. Virtus Ambassador Wai Lok Tang set a new Asian Para Games record with a remarkable time of 1:56.76 seconds, followed closely by Tsun Lok Cheung at 1:57.34 seconds and Hon Yin Wong at 2:00.65 seconds. A triumphant start for Hong Kong in this event!

Aira Kinoshita from Japan delivered a memorable performance, clinching the title in the S14 Women’s 200m Freestyle with a time of 2:22.44 seconds, narrowly missing the Asian record by just one second. The competition intensified, particularly in the battle between Nattharinee Khajhonmatha of Thailand and Japan’s Mami Inoue. Nattharinee ultimately secured the second spot, outpacing Mami by a mere 0.01.76 seconds. A thrilling display of talent and determination!

Table Tennis

Chen Po Yen at GG2023. Photo Credit: Kellerman

In the Men’s Singles Group A, the emerging talent from Chinese Taipei, Chen Po Yen, secured a decisive victory over Hong Kong’s Ming Fai Tsoi, with a clean 3-0 score.

In Group B, Techo Master Narawit (THA) faced a tough challenge from Kim Gi Tae (KOR) and was defeated with a score of 3-0.

In Group C, Takeshi Takemori (JPN) exhibited his skills with a flawless 3-0 win over Chung Yan Leung (HKG).

Group D witnessed a dominant performance by Kim Chang Gi (KOR) as he swept to a 3-0 victory against Asano Takashi (JPN).

Group E featured a competitive match, with Wai Lok Wan (HKG) emerging victorious over Koya Kato (JPN) with a score of 3-1

In the Women’s singles Group A, Wada Natsuki (JPN) displayed her prowess as she swept to a convincing 3-0 victory over Jing Shiuan Li (TPE).

In Group B, Wong Ting Ting (HKG) engaged in a fierce contest with Ito Maki (JPN), ultimately securing a hard-fought 3-2 win.

Group C witnessed a dominant performance by Kanami Furukawa (JPN) as she clinched a decisive 3-0 victory over YangHee Seo (KOR).

In Group D, NG Mui Wui (HKG) exhibited her skills with a resounding 3-0 win over Li Lydia Yi-Ya (TPE).

Meanwhile, Mok Nui Yan (MAC) triumphed with a 3-1 victory over Deekam Phimolphan from Thailand, showcasing her talent on the table.

Schedule and live results can be accessed from Hangzhou 2022 website.

Australian Open 2024 PWII Championships invites entries from II1 athletes

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In a momentous stride towards celebrating diversity and providing equal opportunities, the Australian Open 2023 orchestrated its groundbreaking All Abilities Day on January 24th earlier this year, heralding an era of inclusivity.

After the resounding success of its debut, Tennis Australia proudly presents the Australian Open 2024 PWII Championships, heralding a significant comeback to Melbourne Park for the world’s elite competitors.

Tennis Australia warmly invites athletes of the II1 competition class to join the ranks of the Australian Open 2024, reaffirming their unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive and diverse sporting landscape.

The All Abilities Day stands as a testament to our commitment to recognizing the myriad inclusive facets of tennis. It beckons individuals with varying abilities, encompassing vision, hearing, mobility, sensory, and intellectual disabilities, to revel in the grandeur of the Australian Open within a secure and all-encompassing environment.

In the first edition, over 40 players with intellectual impairment from across 14 countries competed at the event, with Virtus elites Anna Mcbride, Hanne Laveryson, Kelly Wren, Fabrice Higgins, Mitchel James and Archie Graham making an appearance. Virtus hopes to see some new names and more entries in this edition.

“The Australian Open Championships for players with an Intellectual Impairment  provides a fantastic opportunity for our Virtus players to get high quality competition alongside the World’s top players who are competing in the Australian Open Grand Slam event”, says Lelsey Whitehead, Virtus Tennis director.

Sharing the same hallowed courts with tennis luminaries like Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, and many more is a profound morale-boost for athletes with intellectual impairments.

Scheduled from January 26th to 28th, 2024, these championships promise an unparalleled experience. With limited slots available, we urge all aspiring athletes to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and complete the online entry form by October 22, 2023.

Contact Tennis Australia at ‘AOPWII@tennis.com.au‘ for further details about tournament of visa related queries.

Key notes from Tennis Australia:

  • Completing the online entry form DOES NOT guarantee a spot into the event
  • Draw Sizes: 8 Men & 8 Women (top 6 based on VIRTUS singles rankings + 2 wildcards)
  • Acceptance lists will be communicated via email to all who entered
  • Detailed Fact Sheet will be shared with accepted players soon after the deadline

French President Emmanuel Macron praised GG2023 medalist at Paralympic Day celebration

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On Sunday, October 8th, the heart of Paris, Place de la Republique, witnessed tens of thousands of individuals embracing the world of Para sports. The event marked a significant celebration as Paris, with less than one year to go until the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, hosted a grand-scale Paralympic Day.

Eight French athletes supported by Fédération Française du Sport Adapté – FFSA, Charles Antoine Kouakou, Gloria Agblemagnon, Lucas Créange, Antoine Zhao, Timothé Ivaldi, Assya Maurin Espiau, Ceuzinha Gomez SA and Nathan Maillet became the flag bearer for athletes with intellectual impairments at the celebration.

Lucas Créange (on right) and French President Emmanuel Macron playing friendly match Photo Credit: French Paralympic Committee

Tokyo 2020 Bronze medalist, Lucas Créange engaged in a friendly match with the French President Emmanuel Macron and numerous other audience who came to experience the Paralympic Day in the french capital. Antoine Zhao and Timothé Ivaldi also played matches with the partner of the JOP Paris 2024 and Credit Cooperative of the BPCE group.

The President of the CPSF Marie Amélie Le Fur presented the Paris 2024 ticket to Gloria Agblemagnon and President of the Republic presented the same to Charles-Antoines Kouakou. Both will be competing in field and track events respectively at Paris 2024.

On October 9th, President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the GG2023 medalists from the French team and the governing board of FFSA at the Palais de l’Elysée for a special meet and greet. President Macron praised and recognized the achievements of French athletes at the recent Virtus Global Games 2023, Vichy France.

The athletes also signed hundreds of autographs to audience of all ages who came to discover and cheers for the Paralympic athletes during the autograph sessions. A huge crowd enthusiastically gathered around athletes, eager to snap selfies and convey their excitement in anticipation of France’s inaugural summer Paralympics.

FFSA athletes with Paris 2014 mascot-Phryges Photo Credit: French Paralympic Committee